Brothers In The Darkest Night

We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death. (1 John 3:14)

IN THE MOONLESS HOURS after midnight, paratroopers of the 101st Airborne Division parachuted into enemy territory. It was June 6, 1944; the invasion of Normandy had begun. In the fog, the planes had lost formation, and soldiers were scattered several miles from their intended drop zones. Alone in the darkness, with Nazi patrols all around, the men tried to find each other. A flashlight or a word in English invited death, but each soldier was equipped with a small metal clicker they called a cricket. A rustling in the night brought a single “click-clack.” If there came two answering clicks, it was a friend; if not, it was the enemy. Cautiously, they found each other and continued their mission. The rest, as they say, is history.

How can real Christians be identified? Jesus said that people will know we are His disciples by our love for each other. When the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our lives, there should be a newfound love for our brothers and sisters in Christ. And not a “hope it all works out” kind of love, either, but one that translates into practical action. How can a love that is real leave real needs unmet?

When people are in their darkest times, they can spot the Christians in the crowd by the needs they are meeting. It’s how we spell L-O-V-E.

Put hands and feet to your love for others; the impact will be huge.

Neil S. Bowers lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and four children. A state correctional officer, he enjoys poetry and wood carving.